3:55 PM,
Dec. 18, 2013

Will Forte, from left, Bruce Dern and Stacy Keach appear in a scene from the motion picture 'Nebraska.'

Written by

Bill Goodykoontz
GANNETT CHIEF FILM CRITIC

Let's describe Alexander Payne's "Nebraska" in brief: a film shot in black-and-white about a mean old coot who can't see reality when it smacks him in the face, bound and determined to follow his own path no matter how miserable he makes everyone around him.

What a terrific movie.

OK, maybe it doesn't sound like it, and there's probably no way to describe or critique it in a way that will convince you otherwise. Then just trust this: See it. You'll be treated to some laugh-out-loud humor, a lot of heart and some outstanding performances. ...